Peak Of Activity Research Articles

Partial asynchrony of coniferous forest carbon sources and sinks at the intra-annual time scale

As major terrestrial carbon sinks, forests play an important role in mitigating climate change. The relationship between the seasonal uptake of carbon and its allocation to woody biomass remains poorly understood, leaving a significant gap in our capacity to predict carbon sequestration by forests. Here, we compare the intra-annual dynamics of carbon fluxes and wood formation across the Northern hemisphere, from carbon assimilation and the formation of non-structural carbon compounds to their incorporation in woody tissues. We show temporally coupled seasonal peaks of carbon assimilation (GPP) and wood cell differentiation, while the two processes are substantially decoupled during off-peak periods. Peaks of cambial activity occur substantially earlier compared to GPP, suggesting the buffer role of non-structural carbohydrates between the processes of carbon assimilation and allocation to wood. Our findings suggest that high-resolution seasonal data of ecosystem carbon fluxes, wood formation and the associated physiological processes may reduce uncertainties in carbon source-sink relationships at different spatial scales, from stand to ecosystem levels.

Development and External Validation of a Motor Intention–Integrated Prediction Model for Upper Extremity Motor Recovery After Intention-Driven Robotic Hand Training for Chronic Stroke

ObjectiveTo derive and validate a prediction model for minimal clinically important differences (MCIDs) in upper extremity (UE) motor function after intention-driven robotic hand training using residual voluntary electromyography (EMG) signals from affected UE. DesignA prospective longitudinal multicenter cohort study. We collected preintervention candidate predictors: demographics, clinical characteristics, Fugl-Meyer assessment of UE (FMAUE), Action Research Arm Test scores, and motor intention of flexor digitorum and extensor digitorum (ED) measured by EMG during maximal voluntary contraction (MVC). For EMG measures, recognizing challenges for stroke survivors to move paralyzed hand, peak signals were extracted from 8 time windows during MVC-EMG (0.1-5s) to identify subjects’ motor intention. Classification and regression tree algorithm was employed to predict survivors with MCID of FMAUE. Relationship between predictors and motor improvements was further investigated. SettingNine rehabilitation centers. ParticipantsChronic stroke survivors (N=131), including 87 for derivation sample, and 44 for validation sample. InterventionsAll participants underwent 20-session robotic hand training (40min/session, 3-5sessions/wk). Main Outcome MeasuresPrediction efficacies of models were assessed by area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). The best effective model was final model and validated using AUC and overall accuracy. ResultsThe best model comprised FMAUE (cutoff score, 46) and peak activity of ED from 1-second MVC-EMG (MVC-EMG 4.604 times higher than resting EMG), which demonstrated significantly higher prediction accuracy (AUC, 0.807) than other time windows or solely using clinical scores (AUC, 0.595). In external validation, this model displayed robust prediction (AUC, 0.916). Significant quadratic relationship was observed between ED-EMG and FMAUE increases. ConclusionsThis study presents a prediction model for intention-driven robotic hand training in chronic stroke survivors. It highlights significance of capturing motor intention through 1-second EMG window as a predictor for MCID improvement in UE motor function after 20-session robotic training. Survivors in 2 conditions showed high percentage of clinical motor improvement: moderate-to-high motor intention and low-to-moderate function; as well as high intention and high function.

Isolation, purification, and characterization of lectins from medicinal plant Combretum glutinosum seeds endowed with analgesic and antiulcer properties

In the pursuit of safer and more effective treatments, there is a growing interest in plant-derived compounds, particularly lectins, because of their diverse pharmacological properties. This study focused on isolating, purifying, and characterizing lectin from Combretum glutinosum seeds (CGSLs) to assess its potential as an analgesic and antiulcer agent. CGSL extraction involved defatting and buffer extraction, followed by purification using ammonium sulfate fractionation and fetuin-agarose affinity column chromatography. The isolectins (iso-CGSLs), each consisting of 60 kDa and 57 kDa heterodimeric subunits, displayed glycoprotein properties with a 40 % neutral sugar content. They exhibited peak activity at 55 °C and remained stable for up to the fifth day at room temperature. The activity exhibited a pH dependence, peaking between 7.5 and 10.5, and all seemingly operated independently of metal ions. CGSL, at optimal doses ranging from 6 to 12 mg/kg, had significant analgesic effects on acetic acid-induced writhing and hot plate tests in mice. Evaluation using 0.7 % acetic acid resulted in notable pain reduction across all doses (P < 0.05). The analgesic effect of lectin was partially reversed by naloxone (a morphine antagonist), indicating partial involvement of the opioid receptor system. Furthermore, CGSL exhibited antiulcer effects in ethanol-induced gastric ulcer models in rats, highlighting its therapeutic potential as a natural alternative for analgesic and antiulcer treatments.

Monitoring Mosquito Abundance: Comparing an Optical Sensor with a Trapping Method.

Optical sensors have shown significant promise in offering additional data to track insect populations. This article presents a comparative study between abundance measurements obtained from a novel near-infrared optical sensor and physical traps. The optical instrument, named an Entomological Bistatic Optical Sensor System, or eBoss, is a non-destructive sensor operating in the near-infrared spectral range and designed to continuously monitor the population of flying insects. The research compares the mosquito aerial density (#/m3) obtained through the eBoss with trap counts from eight physical traps during an eight-month field study. The eBoss recorded over 302,000 insect sightings and assessed the aerial density of all airborne insects as well as male and female mosquitoes specifically with a resolution of one minute. This capability allows for monitoring population trends throughout the season as well as daily activity peaks. The results affirmed the correlation between the two methods. While optical instruments do not match traps in terms of taxonomic accuracy, the eBoss offered greater temporal resolution (one minute versus roughly three days) and statistical significance owing to its much larger sample size. These outcomes further indicate that entomological optical sensors can provide valuable complementary data to more common methods to monitor flying insect populations, such as mosquitoes or pollinators.

Assessing four decades of fire behavior dynamics in the Cerrado biome (1985 to 2022)

BackgroundFire significantly transforms ecology and landscapes worldwide, impacting carbon cycling, species interactions, and ecosystem functions. In the Brazilian Cerrado, a fire-dependent savanna, the interaction between fire, society, and the environment is evident. Given that wildfires significantly contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, our study aimed to analyze four decades of burned area data to understand changes in fire dynamics, using Collection 2 of annual MapBiomas Fire maps (1985 to 2022). Our study examined spatiotemporal patterns, fire recurrence, fire distribution across land uses, temporal changes in fire scar size, burned area variations across ecoregions, and their correlation with farming areas.ResultsFrom 1985 to 2022, fire impacted 40% (792,204 km2) of the Cerrado biome, with 63% burning more than once. Natural vegetation was the most affected, primarily due to human-driven ignition during the dry season. A noticeable trend of later peaks in fire activity, concentrated towards the end of the dry season, along with an increase in patch size over time, characterized a clear shift in the Cerrado fire regime. Recently, the MATOPIBA region and the northern biome exhibited significant fire clusters, with burned areas rising alongside farming expansion. The ecoregion-based analysis identified fire hotspots, with the "Bananal" ecoregion, the largest wetland area in the biome, exhibiting increased fire recurrence and larger patch size over time.ConclusionsOur four-decade analysis of fire dynamics in the Cerrado revealed human-induced changes in the fire regime, originally shifting from July to September to a new fire season from August to October. This shift poses several environmental threats given their overlap with the driest months of the year. This study improved our understanding of changes in fire patterns and their impacts on each ecoregion and land use. Wetlands experienced the highest relative burned area, highlighting their ecological importance and increased vulnerability. In the southern Cerrado, where farming is established and natural vegetation more fragmented, fire events tend to decrease; while in the north, with recent farming expansion, fire susceptibility rises. Conservation-oriented strategies, like the Brazilian Integrated Fire Management (MIF), are crucial for mitigating impacts while enhancing the Cerrado’s resilience to climate change.

Computational analysis of GCaMP fluorescence data in neuronal activity

The background and motivation of our research is to explore how to use computational methods to analyze GCaMP fluorescence data. GCaMP is a genetically encoded calcium indicator that can be used to observe the activity of thousands of neurons simultaneously using modern fluorescence imaging techniques. Our research includes the application of principles such as basic signal processing, statistical inference, hypothesis testing, and graph theory to help understand raw GCaMP fluorescence data recorded from awake, behavioral mice. The data set includes GCaMP fluorescence trace and correlation coefficient matrix among neurons. Our methods include high-pass filtering, Gaussian mixture model fitting and online active set method peak inference (oasis). By analyzing the correlation between neurons, we can understand the connection and centrality between neurons.

A Detailed Re-Examination of the Period Gene Rescue Experiments Shows That Four to Six Cryptochrome-Positive Posterior Dorsal Clock Neurons (DN1p) of Drosophila melanogaster Can Control Morning and Evening Activity.

Animal circadian clocks play a crucial role in regulating behavioral adaptations to daily environmental changes. The fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster exhibits 2 prominent peaks of activity in the morning and evening, known as morning (M) and evening (E) peaks. These peaks are controlled by 2 distinct circadian oscillators located in separate groups of clock neurons in the brain. To investigate the clock neurons responsible for the M and E peaks, a cell-specific gene expression system, the GAL4-UAS system, has been commonly employed. In this study, we re-examined the two-oscillator model for the M and E peaks of Drosophila by utilizing more than 50 Gal4 lines in conjunction with the UAS-period16 line, which enables the restoration of the clock function in specific cells in the period (per) null mutant background. Previous studies have indicated that the group of small ventrolateral neurons (s-LNv) is responsible for controlling the M peak, while the other group, consisting of the 5th ventrolateral neuron (5th LNv) and the three cryptochrome (CRY)-positive dorsolateral neurons (LNd), is responsible for the E peak. Furthermore, the group of posterior dorsal neurons 1 (DN1p) is thought to also contain M and E oscillators. In this study, we found that Gal4 lines directed at the same clock neuron groups can lead to different results, underscoring the fact that activity patterns are influenced by many factors. Nevertheless, we were able to confirm previous findings that the entire network of circadian clock neurons controls M and E peaks, with the lateral neurons playing a dominant role. In addition, we demonstrate that 4 to 6 CRY-positive DN1p cells are sufficient to generate M and E peaks in light-dark cycles and complex free-running rhythms in constant darkness. Ultimately, our detailed screening could serve as a catalog to choose the best Gal4 lines that can be used to rescue per in specific clock neurons.

Development of Biological Control Tools against Bactrocera zonata (Saunders) (Diptera: Tephritidae) in Citrus Orchards in Egypt

The peach fruit fly Bactrocera zonata, is a harmful insect that infests various fruit crops and vegetables worldwide, including Egypt. Its presence leads to significant damages and losses. To minimize the negative impact of pesticide residues on human health and the environment, a study was conducted to examine the seasonal behavior of Bactrocera zonata on navel orange trees. This investigation involved the utilization of sex attractants and the monitoring of fruit samples. The research was conducted over two consecutive seasons, namely 2020 and 2021. By utilizing sex attractants, pheromone (mass trapping) it was discovered that the number of male Bactrocera zonata captured and infested increased during the Autumn period, specifically in October, in both seasons. Additionally, it was observed that Bactrocera zonata males exhibited a single peak of activity each season. Fruit samples were monitored to assess fruit infestation, and it was found that infestation was positively correlated with the maturity of the fruits. The weekly count of males captured in the fly traps, along with the infestation rate of this pest, indicated that these traps could serve as a useful tool for predicting the infestation rates of Bactrocera zonata in their host fruits. Conclusion The implementation of mass trapping techniques utilizing pheromone-based tools will result in a reduction of infestation by the end of the second season of 2021.

Chitosan stabilized lemon essential oil nanoemulsion controls black mold rot and maintains quality of table grapes

Aspergillus carbonarius infection leads to black mold rot in table grapes, causes grape decay, reduces fruit quality and marketability, which produces significant economic losses. This study investigated the antifungal efficacy of chitosan-stabilized lemon essential oil nanoemulsion (LO-CNE) against A. carbonarius and black mold rot of table grapes. LO-CNE was prepared with a mean diameter of 130.01 ± 8.34 nm. LO-CNE exhibited superior antifungal activity, reduced spore germination and germ tube elongation, decreased the antioxidant enzyme activities in A. carbonarius; the minimal inhibitory concentration of LO-CNE was determined to be 30 mg/mL. LO-CNE reduced the occurrence of black mold rot by 63 % and lesion diameter by 56.78 % in table grapes compared to the control. At their peak activity level, the grapes treated with LO-CNE exhibited significantly enhanced antioxidant and defense-related enzyme activities. Specifically, polyphenol oxidase activity increased by 2.27-fold, peroxidase activity by 2.22-fold, superoxide dismutase activity by 0.68-fold, catalase activity by 1.61-fold, phenylalanine ammonia-lyase activity by 3.38-fold, and ascorbate peroxidase activity by 2.36-fold. The LO-CNE application reduced natural decay by 95 %, weight loss by 15 % compared to the control, and effectively maintained the quality parameters of table grapes. Therefore, LO-CNE can be considered an alternative disease-control agent for grape preservation.

Developing a Research Network of Early Warning Systems for Infectious Diseases Transmission Between China and Australia.

This article offers a thorough review of current early warning systems (EWS) and advocates for establishing a unified research network for EWS in infectious diseases between China and Australia. We propose that future research should focus on improving infectious disease surveillance by integrating data from both countries to enhance predictive models and intervention strategies. The article highlights the need for standardized data formats and terminologies, improved surveillance capabilities, and the development of robust spatiotemporal predictive models. It concludes by examining the potential benefits and challenges of this collaborative approach and its implications for global infectious disease surveillance. This is particularly relevant to the ongoing project, early warning systems for Infectious Diseases between China and Australia (NetEWAC), which aims to use seasonal influenza as a case study to analyze influenza trends, peak activities, and potential inter-hemispheric transmission patterns. The project seeks to integrate data from both hemispheres to improve outbreak predictions and develop a spatiotemporal predictive modeling system for seasonal influenza transmission based on socio-environmental factors.

Novel time-synchronized immune-guided partial tumor irradiation: Proof of principle trial

Background and purposeRadiotherapy for bulky tumors often results in palliation with suboptimal outcomes. The prognosis is worsened by immunosuppression caused by radio-chemotherapy, negatively impacting on survival. Novel Partial Tumor Irradiation (PTI) was designed to spare the Peritumoral Immune Microenvironment (PIM) and to be delivered synchronously with immune activity peaks, thus enhancing both local and distant tumor control through immunostimulation. Materials and methodsPresent proof-of-principle trial enrolled 26 patients with bulky tumors, comparing outcomes between treatments administered at immune activity peaks versus troughs. The primary endpoint was local-bystander and distal-abscopal response-rate. Secondary endpoints included overall-, progression-free-, cancer-specific survival, neoadjuvant and immunomodulatory potential. ResultsAll measured outcomes were significantly influenced by treatment-timing. The bystander and abscopal response rates were 77% and 41%, respectively. PTI significantly upregulated pro-inflammatory and cell-death-inducing pathways improving the efficacy of radiotherapy by highly complex tumors. ConclusionsThis study highlights the profound impact PTI can have on a highly palliative patient cohort previously deemed beyond therapeutic hope. With 41 % of these patients still alive after a median follow-up of 50 months, PTI offers a potential lifeline for those facing advanced, treatment-resistant cancers. This approach generated also distant immunogenic anti-tumor responses, offering a promising new avenue for the treatment of advanced cancers.

Settling moth pollination of a rare orchid in the Habenaria clade revealed with close-focusing camera traps.

It is challenging to make nocturnal observations of the natural behaviour of flower-visiting moths as they are highly sensitive to visible artificial light sources. One solution, implemented here, is to use specially-adapted close-focusing camera traps that rely on infrared wavelengths for detection and illumination of small insect subjects. We investigated the pollination system of Bonatea saundersiodes, a rare African terrestrial orchid that is phylogenetically nested in the large Habenaria clade. We used modified camera traps and direct observations to study the pollination system of B. saundersioides. We quantified floral traits, including morphology, nectar, spectral reflectance and scent chemistry. Flowers of this orchid species were found to be pollinated exclusively by settling noctuid moths. Moth visits to the orchid were recorded throughout the night, with peaks of activity after dusk and just before dawn. Pollinaria of the orchid are attached between the palps of visiting moths. Floral traits generally consistent with settling moth pollination include the relatively short floral spurs (ca. 20 mm) containing small amounts of nectar, white and green perianth segments, and the floral scent which is produced at night and is dominated by β-ocimene and other terpenoid compounds. This study demonstrates that close-focusing camera traps have tremendous potential to improve our understanding of plant-pollinator interactions which are not easy to study using traditional methods.

Isolation, identification and characterization of neopullulanase from Thermomonas hydrothermalis GKE 08

The production of neopullulanase from thermophiles, such as Thermomonas hydrothermalis GKE 08, holds paramount significance due to the enzyme's unique thermophilic nature. Harnessing this characteristic ensures enhanced stability and functionality at elevated temperatures, a crucial aspect for industrial processes demanding efficient catalysis under extreme conditions. The investigation into pullulanase from T. hydrothermalis GKE 08 revealed significant findings. Optimal conditions for enzyme production were determined, with peak activity observed in the presence of 1.5% soluble pullulan and 0.5% peptone. The study delved into the pH and temperature dynamics, identifying an optimal pH of 7 and peak activity at 55 °C. Notably, the neopullulanase exhibited time-dependent stability, retaining 72% activity after 1 hour but declining to 50% after 2 hours. Furthermore, the enzyme displayed remarkable thermostability at 60 °C, with 88% activity after 30 minutes. Metal ion studies indicated susceptibility to inhibition by Cu2+, Mg2+, and Zn2+, while Ca2+ stimulated activity up to 138% at higher concentrations. The enzyme's response to specific reagents revealed sensitivity to SDS and EDTA, while urea surprisingly enhanced activity to 85%. The study enhances understanding of pullulanase behavior, offering valuable insights for biotechnological and industrial applications.

Using ion exchange chromatography for the purification of glyoxylate reductase from corn leaves and studying its characteristics

The purpose of this study was to obtain a purified preparation of the studied enzyme from corn leaves and to study its characteristics. In this work, kinetic and regulatory parameters of glyoxylate reductase were calculated for leaves of 14-day-old corn (Zea mays) seedlings grown hydroponically at 25°C. The following methods were used during the study: sample homogenisation, four-step purification including ammonium sulphate for desalting, gel filtration on G-25 columns, and ion exchange chromatography using DEAE-sephacel, as well as electrophoresis on polyacrylamide gels and quantitative analysis of protein. To study the properties of the enzyme, we used electrophoretically homogenous preparations. The influence of pH, substrate concentration, and cofactor on the rate of the enzymatic reaction was determined by a series of measurements with different values of the enzymatic reaction rate. As a result of four-stage purification, we obtained a homogeneous preparation with a specific activity of167 E/mg of protein. Ion exchange chromatography was important for purification; we obtained 1 peak of enzyme activity upon desorption in 104 mM sodium chloride. Studying the properties of glyoxylate reductase showed a significant dependence of activity on pH. The optimal pH value was 6.5 units.

Optimizing bioethanol production from hassawi rice straw with Aspergillus sp. NAS51 cellulosic enzyme and in silico homology modeling

Researchers' attention has been greatly focused on the use of lignocellulosic wastes to produce bioethanol and biogas due to the depletion of non-renewable energy resources. In our effort to find a potent cellulase-producing fungal strain, the fungus NAS51 was isolated among eight isolates from a sponge collected from the Red Sea, Jeddah, and selected as it displayed the highest cellulase activity including (FP-ase, CMC-ase, and β-glucosidase enzymes) at levels of 3.13 U/ml, 2.52 U/ml, and 0.69 U/ml, respectively. The fungus was identified morphologically and genetically by sequencing its 18SrRNA gene as Aspergillus sp. NAS51. The cellulase activity of Aspergillus sp. NAS51 was optimized and maximum enzyme production was obtained at initial pH7, temp 30oC, incubation period 11 days, moisture content 70%, urea as a nitrogen source, and K2HPO4 (2 g/L). The crude cellulases from strain NAS51 were characterized, and results showed that the enzyme is stable over a wide pH range (6–10), with peak activity at pH 7.0 and 40 °C. The cellulase gene has been sequenced and the protein 3D structure was generated via in silico homology modeling. Determination of binding sites and biological annotations of the constructed protein was carried out via COACH and COFACTOR based on the I-TASSER structure prediction. To reach the maximum enzyme hydrolysis, the rice straw collected from Al-Ahsa, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was pretreated with NaOH 1.5% to remove lignin and to enhance the saccharification process by Cellulase. The saccharified product was measured using HPLC, fermented by S. cerevisiae and the bioethanol yield produced from the fermentation was 0.454 mL ethanol/g fermentable sugars. This study indicates the potential application of fungal enzymes such as cellulase enzymes in biofuel generation and waste management.

Degree-day models for predicting adult Delia platura (Diptera: Anthomyiidae) spring flight and first emergence in New York State.

The seedcorn maggot, Delia platura (Meigen), is a pest affecting many crops, including corn. The early spring emergence of adults and belowground seed damage by maggots leave no room for rescue treatments during the short growing season in New York State. Degree-day (DD) models play a crucial role in predicting insect emergence and adult peak activity and are essential for effective pest management. The current D. platura DD model was launched on the Network for Environment and Weather Applications (NEWA) in 2022, using existing scientific literature from other North American regions. The NEWA model predicted adult D. platura first emergence at an average of 471 (39°F) DD in 2022. To gain an accurate and precise understanding of D. platura adult spring emergence and activity, we used interpolated temperature data to calculate the DD for each specific location where adults were captured in the field. DD calculations were performed using the average method, setting a biofix on January 1st and a base temperature of 39°F. In 2023, overwintering adults emerged at an average of 68 DD, and in 2022, adult activity was registered at an average of 282 DD. Accurately predicting the emergence of D. platura could contribute to informing integrated pest management strategies that incorporate timing and cultural practices over chemical solutions to protect crops and the environment.

Stimulation and imaging of neural cells via photonic nanojets

Various neuromodulation techniques have been developed to modulate the peak activity of neurons, thereby regulating brain function and alleviating neurological disorders. Additionally, neuronal stimulation and imaging have significantly contributed to the understanding and treatment of these diseases. Here, we propose utilizing photonic nanojets for optical stimulation and imaging of neural cells. The application of resin microspheres as microlenses enhances fluorescence imaging of neural lysosomes, mitochondria, and actin filaments by generating photonic nanojets. Moreover, optical tweezers can precisely manipulate the microlenses to locate specific targets within the cell for real-time stimulation and imaging. The focusing capabilities of these microlenses enable subcellular-level spatial precision in stimulation, allowing highly accurate targeting of neural cells while minimizing off-target effects. Furthermore, fluorescent signals during neural cell stimulation can be detected in real-time using these microlenses. The proposed method facilitates investigation into intercellular signal transmission among neural cells, providing new insights into the underlying mechanisms of neuronal cell activities at a subcellular level.

Habituation and coexistence of Griffon Vultures in wind farms: A reply to Duriez et al.

Recently, Duriez et al. (2024) responded to the study by Farfán et al. (2023), asserting that the conclusions regarding the potential habituation and coexistence of a Griffon Vulture population near a wind farm in southern Spain are flawed. First, Duriez et al. (2024) argued that the observed increase in the study area is due to the general growth of the Griffon Vulture population in the region rather than the species’ habituation. Second, they also noted that both fatality searches and Griffon Vulture observations surveys suffer from small sample size and low data quality. Third, they stated that the time spent on sampling was small and outside the peak of flight activity of Griffon Vultures. Below we address the arguments presented by Duriez et al. (2024).

Evaluation of a mass trapping strategy to prevent mosquito nuisance in campsites of southern France.

Mosquito traps, historically used for surveillance and research, have gained prominence as a tool for mosquito control, amidst concern over the environmental impact and increased resistance to insecticide-based methods. In this study, we tested the effectiveness of a mass trapping barrier design with two types of traps, Mosquito Magnet (MM) traps and BG-Protector (BGP) traps. This experiment was conducted in three coastal camping areas in southern France between summer and autumn 2022, where the presence of floodwater mosquito species with anthropophilic preferences like Aedes caspius represents a year-long nuisance. MM traps were set around the campsite as a barrier to interfere with mosquitoes from entering the campsites, whereas BGP traps were set within the campsites, with the aim of diverting mosquitoes away from humans at peak activity hours. Over 210,000 mosquitoes of 11 species from 4 genera were collected by both trap types across treatment campsites, with no significant differences in mosquito community samplings between BGP and MM traps. Barrier traps effectively targeted Ae. caspius, reducing total mosquito abundance in two of the three study sites by 34% and 55%. This study provides valuable insights into the efficacy and feasibility of using mass trapping barriers as a complementary control strategy for mosquito species in wetlands.

ЭКОЛОГО-ЭПИЗООТОЛОГИЧЕСКАЯ ХАРАКТЕРИСТИКА АНОПЛОЦЕФАЛИДОЗОВ МЕЛКОГО РОГАТОГО СКОТА В ФЕРМЕРСКИХ ХОЗЯЙСТВАХ АЛТАЙСКОГО КРАЯ

The purpose of the study is to identify in the Altay Region the most pathogenic helminths among small livestock that threaten the health of farm animals, and their harmfulness and extent of spread. Using the coprooscopic method, fecal samples from sheep of 3 groups were examined: up to one year, from 1 to 2 years and over 2 years. Using the method of complete helminthological autopsies, 18 heads of sheep were opened on farms, of which 11 were aged from 1 to 2 years and 7 heads were older than 2 years. We studied the timing of infection in lambs by monthly examination of the same animals, starting from two months of age until they reach two years of age. All lambs were from the same farm; no anticestodal measures were carried out, so the natural course of the invasion was not disturbed. The survey began at the end of May 2020 with a group of lambs that reached two months of age in the amount of 26 heads. The number of oribatid mites was studied by collecting oribatid mites using a special technique. From the class of cestodes among sheep, 5 species are most often recorded with an average level of extensive infestation from 0.5 to 44.4 %. Anoplocephalid eggs were first discovered in lambs of the current year of birth in July. Moniesia were found throughout the year in young animals from one to two years of age. In March, April, and May they were recorded in single animals in this group of sheep. The seasonal dynamics of the number of oribatid ticks is directly dependent on natural and climatic conditions: significantly fewer ticks were recorded in the steppe zone than in the forest-steppe and floodplain zones. The results of the study show that monieziosis in young lambs kept on pasture is detected coprologically in the conditions of the Altai Region no earlier than July. Two peaks of activity of the intermediate hosts of moniesia, oribatid mites, have been recorded: spring and autumn.